Building relationships with Better conversations !

Have you ever felt abandoned in a group where no one conversed with you?

Have you ever felt sidelined within your group of friends or team at work?

or

Have you ever felt wanted in a conversation?

Have you ever felt like you were included?

All these questions can and would be answered either way, based on many factors of how we interact within the group.

We may find many types of people in this world - some who care for you, some who don't. Some who make a conscious effort not to hurt you, while some others could inadvertently and unknowingly dampen your spirits. So, it is evident that having a broader outlook with deeper perspectives can actually ease situations. With this in mind I like to present you with these awesome and yet simple words - AND, NEVERTHELESS, ALTHOUGH and DIFFERENT!!

While these words may seem simple, it has a lot of depth, especially when it is used in an appropriate manner. Using the above words in our conversations bring people, ideas or thoughts on a common platform. Here are a few common examples:

1. While relating to people – “I heard you but I don't agree” versus “I heard you, however I disagree”.
2. While giving feedback – “I like Jane's hair, but find her to be talkative” versus “I like Jane's hair, although I find her to be talkative”.
3. While referencing context as to who said what? – “But John said” versus “And John said”.

Try using substitute words such as these, you will be totally surprised at the results and how it will create an all-inclusive climate within a particular group.

I have found through my own experiences while dealing with people from diverse communities that using the word 'different' can be a great way to show one's respect for the other. Here are a few instances:

1. Imagine that you are dining with a friend from another community, culture or country and you are offered their delicacy with love and care. After tasting it, if it doesn't suit you, you could always avoid saying "I didn't like it" and instead perhaps say "it's different". You may come across as one who is open to learning, willing to try and experience something outside of your comfort zone. This approach may help you foster better and lasting relationships.
2. Another situation could be during an intense discussion at work wherein sometimes a member within the group would say something hurtful like, "I have explained, but you cannot understand my point of view". This sentence can be perhaps substituted with "I have explained and you may have missed my point of view."

There are innumerable advantages that I have witnessed in using these words - AND, NEVERTHELESS, ALTHOUGH and DIFFERENT in my conversations. This practice brings in a sense of respect for diverse cultures, a fair and level playing platform and most importantly - an opportunity to express your feelings of being inclusive.

So the next time, you have the option to share your feedback, opinion or ideas, try using these neutral words and I'm sure you will reap the benefits of having trusted and lasting relationships with all people you associate with.

This article is written by?Willis Langford ,?an unbiased, result driven & passionate HR professional who has a flair for technology and keen interest in making this world a better place with a zest for life.

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